Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has thrown its weight behind Nigeria’s campaign to regain a seat in Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, citing the nation’s strides in maritime safety and governance as grounds for international support.
MWUN President General, Comrade Francis Bunu, made this known over the weekend in Lagos, praising the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for its critical role in transforming the maritime landscape, particularly in securing the Gulf of Guinea from piracy and criminal activity.
“We now have peace on our waters, and this achievement is commendable,” Bunu said. “It enhances regional stability and boosts investor confidence. NIMASA has done well.”
The union leader stressed that Nigeria’s improved maritime safety profile positions it as a worthy candidate for global maritime leadership and pledged MWUN’s commitment to mobilizing international labor allies to support the country’s IMO Council bid.
“Nigeria is long overdue for a return to the IMO Council. A vote for Nigeria is a vote for Africa,” he declared.
Bunu also applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry, calling it a “bold and visionary step” that aligns Nigeria with global efforts to harness ocean-based economic opportunities.
“The Ministry opens new economic frontiers and supports our youth through job creation and skills development within the blue economy space,” he added.
As Nigeria prepares to mark the 2025 Day of the Seafarer, themed *“Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity,”* Bunu underscored the need for sustainable ocean governance and greater recognition of seafarers’ contributions to international trade.
“MWUN remains steadfast in its advocacy for seafarers’ rights, decent work conditions, and responsible stewardship of our ocean resources,” he said. “Nigerian seafarers deserve our gratitude for their immense contributions to global commerce.”
Reaffirming MWUN’s commitment to industrial harmony, Bunu assured stakeholders of continued collaboration across the maritime sector, especially in the dock labour sub-sector.
“Under my leadership, MWUN will continue to work with all maritime stakeholders to ensure peace, progress, and sustained sectoral growth,” he said.